Frequently Asked Questions About Craft Beer
March 20, 2018

Downtown West, Minneapolis

Craft beer has grown exponentially in popularity, broadening the span of eager connoisseurs. Whether you’re thinking about getting into home brewing or just enjoy going out for a drink with your friends, it can be interesting and rewarding to learn more about the industry. The knowledgeable staff at Devil’s Advocate have shared answers to a few of the most frequent questions they hear at their bar in Minneapolis, MN.

Answers to Craft Beer FAQs

What Is a Craft Brewer?

A brewer is described as craft if they are small and independent. They also tend to use traditional ingredients and fermentation techniques. Though the small organizations produce a modest amount of beer, their brews can be widely sold at local stores, restaurants, and bars.

How Are They Made?

There are four basic ingredients of beer: malted barley, water, yeast, and hops. Brewers heat the grain in water until the starches become sugars. They boil the sugar water to remove contaminants, then add hops. Once this mixture is cool, the yeast is pitched and shaken to ferment. Fermentation is when the yeast digests the sugars and creates alcohol. Depending on the other ingredients added and the way the process is done, the resulting beverage will have unique characteristics.

What Is an IPA?

The India Pale Ale (IPA) is the most popular type of craft brew in America. They were originally made in the 1700’s, and while they waned in popularity, Americans started brewing their own IPA’s in the 1970’s. These brews have a higher concentration of hops, which add a deep flavor and bitterness to the beer. They tend to have fruit flavors and range from gold to copper in color.

What Are Hops?

The essential ingredient adds bitterness to balance out the sugar and depth to the flavor. Hops are a flowering climbing vine, and the flower is what they add to beer. They are pale green and resemble small pine cones.

If you’re ready to relax with some friends and a refreshing glass of craft beer, head out to happy hour at Devil’s Advocate from 3 to 7 p.m. Sample new varieties or try one of over 40 beers they keep on tap. Enjoy the traditional Irish pub atmosphere, a round of pool, or snack on their selection of American food. Call (612) 333-2644 to reserve a table, and follow them on Facebook to receive regular news and updates.